Solar & Electric Vehicle Charging

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) operate using electricity stored in rechargeable batteries to power their electric motors. Charging these vehicles involves connecting them to EV chargers. Combining an electric vehicle with solar panels and a battery storage system can significantly lower charging expenses, reduce commuting costs, and substantially decrease your environmental impact. Popular electric vehicle brands like Tesla, Kia, and Rivian provide even greater advantages when integrated with a solar power setup.

What are the different types of EV Chargers?

Level 1 Chargers

Level 1 chargers plug directly into standard 120-volt household outlets. These chargers offer the slowest charging rates, adding roughly 4 to 6 miles of driving range per hour. They are suitable for overnight charging, smaller battery EVs, or scenarios where installing more powerful chargers isn't practical.

Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 chargers are the most widely-used home and business charging solutions. These chargers utilize 240-volt outlets, similar to those powering household clothes dryers. Level 2 units deliver between 10 and 30 miles of range per hour, depending on the charger and the vehicle. Installation typically requires a certified electrician. Costs for chargers range from $500 to $750, with installation generally adding another $500 to $1,000. Level 2 chargers provide convenient, faster charging ideal for longer commutes, larger battery EVs, or quicker home charging needs.

Level 3 DC Fast Chargers

DC fast chargers offer significantly quicker charging, capable of delivering over 100 miles of range per hour. However, their installation demands robust electrical infrastructure, resulting in higher costs. Typically used along major transport routes or commercial charging stations, Level 3 chargers are uncommon for residential or small business applications.

How do I know what EV Charger I need?

Most Level 2 chargers use the J1772, or universal connector, compatible with almost all major electric vehicles except Tesla, which uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS). Tesla owners can easily use an inexpensive adapter for universal charging ports. Tesla’s Supercharger network dominates fast charging infrastructure, and by 2025, major automakers and charging station providers will widely adopt NACS.

What are EV Charging Times at home?

Charging duration varies significantly based on battery capacity and charger type:

• Level 1 (120V): Adds 4-6 miles of range per charging hour.
• Level 2 (240V): Adds 10-30 miles of range per charging hour.
• Level 3 DC Fast Charger: Typically adds around 80-100 miles of range per hour.

Examples:

• A Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid with a 33-mile electric range can fully recharge in approximately 5-6 hours using a Level 1 charger or 1-1.5 hours using a Level 2 charger.
• A Tesla Model 3 Standard Range with a 250-mile range achieves 80% battery capacity in roughly 6 hours using a Level 2 charger or around 1 hour with a Level 3 fast charger.

Battery charging speeds can vary depending on vehicle specifics and battery conditions; often, charging from 40% to 80% is quicker than charging from 0% to 40%.

Should I install an EV Charger?

EV chargers are compact, requiring minimal installation space, and can be conveniently set up in garages, driveways, or mounted on freestanding pedestals near homes. Professional installation ensures proper electrical connections and safety standards. Install

How much solar do I need for an electric vehicle?

The solar panel capacity required for charging your EV depends primarily on annual driving mileage:

• 3,500 miles/year = 1 kW solar system
• 7,000 miles/year = 2 kW solar system
• 10,500 miles/year = 3 kW solar system
• 14,000 miles/year = 4 kW solar system
• 17,500 miles/year = 5 kW solar system
• 21,000 miles/year = 6 kW solar system

These guidelines serve as initial estimates to help determine the appropriate solar installation size for your specific EV charging needs. If you have questions about switching to solar for your electric vehicle, please contact our team.

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